Southern Gulf Islands Sailing Photo Tour
July 28th-30th, 2026
Departing from Sidney, BC
Natural Freedom X Taylor Burk X Providence 1903
Sail Into Island Time
Set sail on a custom photography adventure aboard Providence as part of the guest crew, exploring the Southern Gulf Islands.
You’ll have the chance to capture a classic tall ship in action while getting hands-on hoisting sails, helping navigate, or even taking the helm. Along the way, we’ll explore island communities and quiet coastal spots, with plenty of opportunities to document the landscapes and tell a visual story of connection and life on the water.
Or, if it’s more your pace, you can just kick back, take it all in, and connect with a great group of like-minded people.
Limited to 10 guests.
Dates & Location.
Departure:
Tuesday, July 28, 2026 @ ~9:00 AM
Arrival:
Thursday, July 30, 2025 @ ~4:00 PM
3 days / 2 nights
Tour departs from and arrives back at Sidney Marina on Vancouver Island, BC near Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal (Victoria).
What to expect:
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On this photo tour, everything is chartered privately, giving us the freedom to decide where to stop and what to focus on - an experience you won’t find on a regular guided trip. Our priority is creating the ideal setting for photography. This will be a great opportunity to build your portfolio and/or connect with other photographers.
Please note that you do not have to be a photographer to join, you are welcome regardless! -
Come alone or with friends, either way you will be surrounded by like minded individuals who are passionate about the outdoors, nature and photography. A great opportunity to make new friends and build community!
10 guests total. -
We are hopeful to porpoises, harbour seals and Orcas, the Gulf Islands are a haven for marine life photography. Bird enthusiasts can spot iconic bald eagles, auklets, cormorants, and more as you sail.
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Document the culture and artistry of island life, exploring port communities where you’ll meet local artisans, sample fresh food and drinks, and immerse yourself in the creative spirit of the islands. All by sailboat!
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Capture scenes of a classic tall ship in action and/or learn about sailing and help hoist sails, navigate, and steer.
Itinerary:
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9:00 AM: Set off from Sidney and begin making your way to Pender Island. Enjoy a morning of cruising as we navigate past coastal inlets and forested islands.
Afternoon / Evening: Visit Twin Island Cider for a private tasting of their wild-fermented, island-grown ciders. Learn about their small-batch process and enjoy sips under the orchard trees.
Feel free to explore Pender Island at your own leisure.
Overnight: Anchorage at a scenic spot, perfect for watching the sunset/sunrise.
*Finalized itinerary will be sent to registered guests
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Morning: We set sail again, cruising between the Gulf Islands with coffee in hand and cameras at the ready.
Afternoon/Evening: Dock at Ganges Marina, nestled in the heart of Salt Spring’s most vibrant town.
Farm Tour: Details TBA.
Private visit to “A Sunday in August”, a small, laid-back winery specializing in natural, low-intervention wines. We’ll enjoy a private tasting and hear how they let the land and season shape each bottle.
Feel free to explore at your own leisure.Overnight: Anchorage at a scenic spot, perfect for watching the sunset/sunrise.
Nautical theme costume party onboard!
*Finalized itinerary will be sent to registered guests
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Morning/Afternoon: Enjoy a final sail through sheltered waters, soaking in the last quiet moments of this coastal escape.
4:00 PM: Arrive back in Sidney.
Optional: Stick around for the Sidney Street Market, a lively evening market along Beacon Avenue featuring live music, handmade goods, and local eats (Thursday evenings, 5:30–8:30 PM).
*Finalized itinerary will be sent to registered guests
Price:
Last Minute Rate:
$1,550 CAD + GST per person (~$1110 USD)
Standard Rate:
$1,675 CAD + GST per person
Only 1 spot left!
A $500 deposit is required upon booking, view our cancellation policy here. Payments plans available.
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Ship and captain for duration of trip + bunk onboard
Photography Guidance
Private Cider & wine Tasting
Shuttle Services
Snacks & Refreshments ( see included meals below)
A welcome gift package from our sponsors.
And more TBA!
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You will be sleeping aboard Providence in her modest and comfortable accommodations. You will have your own private bunk in a shared space, please bring a sleeping bag.
View the gallery here. -
Included meals:
Breakfast: Day 2 & 3
Lunch: Day 1, 2 & 3
Dinner: Day 1, Day 2
There will be plenty of snacks and refreshments available throughout the trip.
Meals will be modest but delicious, as we'll be enjoying the crew meals onboard.
REGISTER BELOW:
FAQ.
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Travel costs to reach Sidney Marina as well as accommodations before and after the tour are the responsibility of the participant. (We recommend that you arrive a day early to make sure you are here on time.)
Dinner on day 2 & 3.
Alcohol—guests are welcome to bring their own to enjoy responsibly at the end of each day!
Travel/Trip and Medical Insurance (recommended).
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Sidney, BC is located on Vancouver Island near Victoria, BC.
For those coming from the mainland you can either walk or drive onto the ferry from Vancouver (Tsawwassen Terminal) to Victoria (Swartz Bay Terminal).
I would recommend either staying nearby the night before or catching the 6am or 7am ferry on the 8th. You can catch an uber or taxi from the ferry terminal to the marina.
You can also fly into Victoria International Airport which is conveniently located nearby. Ubers and taxis are available here as well. -
No, we are accepting and encouraging international bookings.
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Guests need to be prepared for all kinds of weather. Summer on the coast means sunshine and warmth but being on the water is usually a bit colder than on land.
A packing list will be sent out to you upon registration.
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While the excursion is moderately active, encountering slippery shorelines and boarding the sailboat may present challenges, particularly for individuals with specific disabilities.
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We will do our best to provide options for you if you have any specific restrictions. Please let us know beforehand, especially if it’s something life threatening.
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Absolutely! You don’t have to be a photographer to join, you're more than welcome to come for the experience and enjoy good company in nature! Feel free to just use your phone and soak in the moments as they happen.
Our awesome partners.
Photo & Video Credit: Railay Fawkes, Shannon Munro, Mirae Campbell, Taylor Burk